22nd February 2006

Oxford City Council Green Group today congratulated the City Council on

again supporting the cause of the Jericho Boatyard community, while pressing

for further action to be taken as soon as possible.

During the City Council's budget debate (Monday February 20th), the

Green Group put forward proposals to purchase the 'Jericho boatyard land'

from British Waterways, who are currently attempting to evict the members

of the boating community living on it. While this suggested purchase was

not accepted by Council, it was agreed that the idea had merit and

should be investigated as a matter of urgency. The City Council also voted

overwhelmingly with the Greens in reiterating their support for the

boating community and their desire for British Waterways to desist in their

attempts to evict the boaters.

Cllr Sushila Dhall, who proposed the original motion to purchase the

Jericho Boatyard land, commented: "Thanks to Green Party pressure, the

City Council have again taken a stand against the bullying tactics of

British Waterways - a public body meant to be acting in the interest of

boaters. Any plans for the Jericho boatyard land must incorporate boat

repair facilities, a community centre and affordable housing - and Greens

will resist any moves to reduce support for boaters in Oxford."

Cllr Craig Simmons, Leader of the Green Group commented:

"There is just enough headroom in the capital budget to 'borrow' sufficient funds to purchase the boatyard. The aim is not to hang on to it for the long term but to use the leverage that we would have as owner of the land to strike a better deal that would secure the long term future of the boatyard and provide much needed affordable housing on the site. It is a win-win situation."

FMI, contact Cllr Sushila Dhall at 01865 553415 or Cllr Craig Simmons at

01865 202257.

More information: www.portmeadow.org